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Braddon voters sent the Turnbull Government a clear message that they want more funding for schools and hospitals not a tax cut for the big banks. It was also an endorsement of Justine’s hard work in standing up for, supporting and representing her constituents.

I look forward to seeing Justine back in Parliament again as the Member for Braddon.

Senator BILYK (Tasmania) (19:41): As many in this place know, I’m a passionate advocate for cancer patients and their families. We need to find better ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancers of all kinds. I want to speak tonight just quickly about EX-MED Cancer, a best-practice exercise program for people with cancer.

As you can imagine, cancer has a serious impact on the health and wellbeing of cancer patients. The impacts include fatigue, cognitive impairment, accelerated bone loss, incontinence, dysfunction of other sorts and many others. For example, I personally have developed a bit of a hearing disability since my brain cancers. Years of scientific research has established that exercise is an invaluable medicine in the management of cancer, and evidence shows that exercise helps cancer patients counteract their cancer related fatigue and tolerate their treatments. Exercise minimises functional impairments, relieves stress and mental distress and is safe during and after treatment.Continue reading →

Today, on World TAFE Day, I reiterate my pledge to support the AEU‘s Stop TAFE Cuts Campaign.

A Shorten Labor Government will:
– Guarantee two out of three public vocational education dollars go to TAFE.
– Waive upfront fees for 100,000 students to attend TAFE.…
– Invest $100 million in modernising TAFE facilities around the country.
– Ensure one in every ten jobs on Commonwealth priority projects are filled by Australian apprentices.
– Provide 10,000 pre-apprentice programs for young people who want to learn a trade.
– Provide 20,000 adult apprentice programs for older workers who want or need to retrain.
– Establish a National Commission of Review into Post-secondary education within the first 100 days of government.

Senator BILYK (Tasmania) (13:12): I rise today to contribute to the National Redress Scheme for Institutional Child Sexual Abuse Bill 2018 and the National Redress Scheme for Institutional Child Sexual Abuse (Consequential Amendments) Bill 2018. The sexual abuse of a child is one of the most horrific and despicable crimes a person can commit. For many survivors the effects of this crime can be devastating and will usually last for a lifetime. These effects can include feelings of guilt, shame and self-blame, even though it is the perpetrator who should be held accountable. Child sexual abuse can also affect an adult survivor’s ability to be intimate with others and can lead to difficulty forming close relationships. Some survivors will experience flashbacks and painful memories during their lives and even during sexual activity, even if it’s consensual and on their own terms. Survivors can also struggle with self-esteem, which in turn impacts on other aspects of life, such as their relationships, career and health. A 2013 study by the Australian Institute of Family Studies found that the other effects of child sexual abuse include adverse mental and physical health consequences, substance abuse and risky behaviour. Even though some survivors, with support and treatment, go on to lead happy and fulfilling lives, they may still bear the psychological and emotional scars of the abuse they have suffered. Continue reading →

According to COTA (Council On The Ageing) Tasmania, it is estimated that between 3,000 and 4,500 older Tasmanians are victims of abuse. The abuse takes many forms including emotional, physical, financial, sexual or neglect.

People unfortunately become more vulnerable to abuse as they grow older, and are often reluctant to report it, especially since around half of the abuse is perpetrated by family members. This is why preventing elder abuse is a responsibility of the entire community and we need to raise awareness.

Thanks to St Aloysius Catholic College for the invitation to attend His Royal Highness Prince Edward’s visit to acknowledge the work of schools and volunteers who are delivering the The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in Southern Tasmania.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award promotes youth personal development through participation in community service, physical activity, expedition and skills.

As chair of the Senate Select Committee on the Future of Public Interest Journalism, I’d like to make a few comments on the report we’re presenting to the Senate today.

A vibrant, diverse and free fourth estate is an essential component for any healthy democracy.

Australians rely on quality journalism to give them access to the information they need. This helps them to make informed decisions about how they participate in democracy, as well as enriching their lives more generally. In short, public interest journalism keeps the powerful accountable. It ensures that both the Commonwealth and parliament are transparent and accountable to the Australian people.Continue reading →

Warmest congratulations to all recipients at the Kingborough Council Awards Ceremony this morning. Special congratulations to my nominee, Freya Cox, on receiving the Young Citizen of the Year 2018 Award. She is a young woman going places.